Male victims of domestic abuse and female criminals take center stage at Sheffield Docfest industry

Panel discussions about male victims of domestic abuse and female victims of true crime are among the most tantalizing sessions on offer at this year’s Sheffield Docfest, which has today announced its full industry line-up for 2024.

Navigating Shocking Violence in Docs: A Case Study of Channel 5 My Wife, My Abuser takes place on Thursday 13 June at 12pm at Sheffield Town Hall and will be moderated by Dr Sian Williams (psychologist and broadcaster). Panelists include Richard Spencer, (Senior Contributor), Adrian Padmore (Channel 5 Commissioner), John Hay (Executive Producer, Atticus Film & TV), Clare Hoban (Media Solicitor, Reviewed & Licensed).

Women in the Frame: Representing Women in Crime Documentaries takes place at 4pm on the same day in Channing Hall and will be moderated by Fozia Khan, Head of Unscripted, UK Originals, at AmazonMGM Studios. Participants include Kirsty Cunningham (Creative Director, Sarah Everard: The Search for Justice; The Met), Anna Hall (Series Director and Executive Producer, The Push; Libby Are You Home Yet?), Emily Turner (Director, Accused : The Hampstead Pedophile) Hoax), Jack Rampling (Director, Liar: The Fake Grooming Scandal).

The Festival’s Industry Market and Program runs in conjunction with the Festival from 12-17 June and includes 22 industry sessions for delegates, five market sessions, three live pitch sessions, the Filmmakers’ Challenge, the Alternate Realities Summit, five Rough Cuts and Craft markets. Summit, a day of five panels and masterclasses, as well as the previously announced MeetMarket pitch forum.

The Industry program dives into the business of documentary in all its forms, complementing the previously announced film program, exploring the skills and techniques behind many of this year’s films, with a focus on production, editing, cinematography, accessibility and ethics. The festival will feature a range of funding opportunities including collaborations with Channel 4, The Whickers and Podcast Pitch powered by The Whickers.

Alex Cooke, Chairman of Trustees of Sheffield DocFest said: “This year’s festival celebrates world-class documentaries, the program is packed with exciting and extraordinary films, an exciting series of talks and debates and some brilliant initiatives: the Filmmakers’ Challenge, showcase opportunities and the market to support new projects and new talents.

“We are very aware that times are tough, globally for many and also in our industry as we face numerous challenges. The risk is to withdraw, to isolate ourselves. So we encourage you to join us to reconnect and energize each other in person. Our hope, as always, is that you leave DocFest feeling creatively challenged, inspired by what you see, and uplifted by your peers in this diverse community that is so special.”